Attack act of terrorism: Leahy

By CLARISSA MOI
THE attack on one of the largest poultry farms in the country on Friday has been described as “akin to domestic terrorism” which demands a strong Government response.
General manager of the Zenag Chicken Farm in Bulolo, Morobe, Stanley Leahy said initial assessments indicated that the losses would exceed K1 million.
He told The National that the farmers had found out that more than 15,000 birds were stolen plus 12,000 commercial and 3,500 fertile eggs.
“It is estimated the losses will exceed K1.6 million in value,” Leahy said.
“Lost breeding capacity constitutes the largest portion of these losses and directly impacts our ability to supply day-old chicks to small-medium enterprise farmers in Papua New Guinea.” Much of the operation was closed on Friday to mourn Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s death.
“It is the first time in Zenag’s 75-year history that an attack of this nature and size has occurred,” Leahy said.
“The scale and coordination of the attack is akin to domestic terrorism and demands a strong response from the Government.
“We are grateful to the police for the arrests made so far and will continue to provide support until all the primary instigators are brought to justice.
“Healing from the wounds by this cowardly attack will take time.
“However, our staff are working to get production back on track for our customers.”
The Lae chamber of commerce and industry also expressed disappointment at the loss incurred.
It said, in a statement, that Zenag provided many benefits to the community in terms of employment, education and empowerment.
“If anyone has any knowledge of who the ringleaders or participants were, please notify the police,” it said.
“You will remain anonymous.”
Farmers and settlers association president Wilson Thompson said the attack would affect the supply of chicken.